DEESIDE grandparents are raising money for their grandson’s school which caters for people with disabilities.

Patricia and Bob Connah, from Pentre, have covered their house with Christmas lights in aid of Ysgol Pen Coch in Flint.

The Connahs are hoping to donate enough collections so that the school, which their grandson attends, can afford to buy a traversing wall and safe play flooring for the outside playground.

This is together with refurbishing the virtual reality room to provide some more experiences for situations that the children may find challenging and react badly to.

Ysgol Pen Coch is a special school which caters for children aged 5-11 with a range of disabilities from autism and Aspergers Syndrome to severe physical disability or behavioural issues.

The school is the only one of its kind in Flintshire, it provides innovative therapies in a nurturing environment, it enhances the lives of some very challenged children, helping them to reach their individual potential.

The Connahs have been going above and beyond to decorate their house for 15 years, but it’s only in the last two that they have started doing so for charity.

With still two weeks to go until Christmas, the Connahs have already beaten last year’s tally of donations.

Patricia Connah said: ‘’We know that Flintshire Council do a great job in financially supporting the school, but in the current economic climate they can only do so much.

‘’For that reason, we thought it’d be great to turn the Christmas lights tradition into a fundraising activity to help the school.

‘’Our amazing grandson attends Ysgol Pen Coch, so we know first hand the wonderful work they do on a daily basis.

‘’This year, with our fabulous friends and neighbours, Graham and Steph, and lots of community support, we hope to raise enough money to provide the school with vital new equipment.’’

Julian Lewis, Ysgol Pen Coch assistant headteacher, said: ‘’Any fundraising is gratefully received, but with the Connah’s appeal being so localised and high profile it’s absolutely brilliant the support they give us.

‘’The key things we need as a special school is the practical equipment, such as hoists to help move the pupils out of their wheelchairs.

‘’The money raised by the Connahs has been absolutely vital for us and we’d like to extend our thanks to them for their continued support.’’